``the Praying Mantis`` Will Have Limited Engagement At Arts Center

July 10, 1988

``The Praying Mantis`` by Alejandro Sieveking, one of Chile`s leading playwrights, will have a limited engagement at the College of Du Page Arts Center. Performances will be at 8 p.m., Thursdays through Saturdays, and at 8 p.m., Sundays, through July 16.

The satiric political drama concerns Juan, an unsuspecting young man, who visits a foreboding mansion in the town of Talchahuanc to woo a young lady named Adela. Adela, her two sisters and strange father are equally anxious to welcome Juan into their house, where two suitors have been killed in recent years. With humor and intrigue, Sieveking explores repressed sexuality, envy, middle-class attitudes and the political control of a suppressed society.

The play is presented by the Buffalo Theatre Ensemble, a professional troupe of actors formed more than a year ago by Craig Berger, the college`s director of theater.

The production will be staged in the 200-seat Theatre 2 of the Arts Center, 22d Street and Park Boulevard, Glen Ellyn. Tickets are $10, $8 for students and seniors. Call the ticket office at 858-2817, ext. 2036.